Genesis 43:8,9
And Judah said to his father Israel, “Send the lad with me, and we will arise and go, that we may live and not die, we as well as you and our little ones. I myself will be surety for him; you may hold me responsible for him. If I do not bring him back to you and set him before you, then let me bear the blame before you forever.”
This is a very dark day for the brothers. They had visited Egypt months ago and had been accused by Joseph. They said amongst themselves, “it’s because we had no compassion on our brother years earlier”. Joseph further persuaded them to bring Benjamin. This pushed Jacob to the edge of his sanity. They had lived with these thoughts for months. They knew they had to go back to Egypt. It was all coming back on them. Difficult times will come upon us. They are even worse when we cause them; and doubly bad when it was a shameful act. So was the case for the brothers.
In this moment, Judea steps up and takes responsibility. Reuben had done so earlier, but Jacob wasn’t ready. Someone had to do it.
Judea feared God. While he knew God was just and that they may be paying for their earlier sins, He also knew God was merciful. The situation looked grim, but he knew God favored his family and would care for them. So, also, we don’t know what lies ahead. We make the bold choice and do the right thing, because we know God will take care of us.
This reminds me of tithing. When I write the monthly check, I know it has to be done. I also know that we could use that money else where. But I know God requires it and furthermore, I know He is Jehovah-Jirah, our provider. I believe He has blessed us, because of it.
Judea knows this and steps forward.
Lord, thank You that You are with us. You allow us to be in difficult spots and You come through for us. Give us the courage and wisdom to speak up and take responsibility at the right times.